CHAP. 39.—OMPHACIUM: THREE REMEDIES.
As to olive oil, we have abundantly treated of its nature
and elements already. [Note] It now remains to speak of the medicinal properties of the various kinds of oil. The most useful
of all is omphacium, [Note] and next to that, green oil; [Note] in addition to which, we may remark that oil ought to be as fresh as
possible, except in cases where old oil is absolutely required.
For medicinal purposes, too, oil should be extremely fluid,
have an agreeable smell, and be free from [Note] all taste, just the
converse, in fact, of the property which we look for in food.
Omphacium is good for the gums, and if kept from time to
time in the mouth, there is nothing better as a preservative of
the whiteness of the teeth. It checks profuse perspirations.
